Hiring and training new Class 1 drivers in B.C. is expensive. Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) is now required before a new driver can get a Class 1 licence. Training costs are a big barrier for carriers who want to grow. The BC Trucking Association MELT Grant helps by giving funding to eligible motor carriers for approved MELT-related training expenses.
The BC Trucking Association Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) Grant Opportunity provides money to BC Trucking Association (BCTA) motor carrier members. This funding supports MELT training for unemployed or underemployed people who are being hired into the trucking industry.
The main goal is to help carriers build a qualified workforce and make sure new drivers meet B.C.’s Class 1 licensing rules.
Key program facts:
The MELT Grant offers:
This grant helps reduce training costs for carriers. It does not cover all licensing or employment expenses.
Knowing who can apply is important. Most applications are rejected because they do not meet the rules.
Your business must:
The person you want to train must:
The grant does not cover:
Eligible costs must be directly related to MELT training. These can include:
Costs not tied to training, such as wages or regular onboarding expenses, are usually not covered.
The application must be submitted by the carrier, not the driver. Here’s how to apply:
Check your BCTA membership
Only BCTA motor carrier members can apply.
Recruit an eligible candidate
The candidate must be unemployed or underemployed and eligible to work in Canada.
Assess the candidate
Make sure the person is a good fit for Class 1 training.
Prepare training details
Gather information about the MELT training provider, schedule, and expected costs.
Submit the application to BCTA
Applications are reviewed for eligibility and program criteria.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if you and your candidate meet the main program rules.
Applying for owner-operators
The MELT Grant is only for employees, not owner-operators.
Using full-time employees as candidates
Candidates cannot be full-time employees at the time of application.
Expecting all training costs to be covered
The grant is capped at $2,500 and only covers approved MELT-related expenses.
Letting the candidate apply
Only the motor carrier can apply. Applications from drivers will not be accepted.
Q: What is the BC Trucking Association MELT Grant?
It is a training grant for BCTA motor carrier members to help pay for Class 1 MELT training for unemployed or underemployed people.
Q: How much funding can I receive per driver?
You can get up to $2,500 per participant for approved MELT-related costs.
Q: Can full-time employees be trained using this grant?
No. Candidates cannot be full-time employees when you apply.
Q: Are owner-operators eligible for MELT Grant funding?
No. Independent contractors and owner-operators are not eligible.
Q: Is the MELT Grant taxable income?
Training grants are usually non-repayable, but tax treatment can vary. Check with your accountant.
If you have more questions about workforce grants, GrantHub tracks hundreds of programs across Canada. You can compare which ones fit your business profile.
If you’re planning more workforce development, check out:
The BC Trucking Association MELT Grant is a focused program, but it is not the only training support for B.C. carriers. Many trucking businesses combine MELT funding with other provincial or federal workforce grants to help cover hiring and training costs. GrantHub lets you see all active options in one place, so you can plan your driver training strategy with confidence.
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